MADISON, Wis. -- It may soon cost 50 cents more to ride Madison Metro.

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On Monday night, the Board of Estimates voted to recommend the increase to the full Common Council, but not before listening to dozens of riders who voiced their concern over the potential rate hike.

"I believe this is the wrong time to increase fares. We're looking at the economic crisis, the energy crisis, but here at home were looking at non-attainment status for air quality, which is an EPA level that says your air quality is unhealthy to be living in," said Metro rider Amanda White.

Increasing fuel costs and plans to expand Metro service are the reasons behind the possible fare hike.

Riders who attended Monday night's meeting said hiking fees in already tough economic times only hurts those who need the bus the most.

Many also voiced their concern over air-quality issues.

"You've already driven the city into EPA dirty air classification, are you proud of yourselves now?" asked Metro rider Michael Barrett.

The Common Council will take up the rate hike issue during Tuesday night's meeting.

Many alders attended the Board of Estimates meeting and public hearing, but do not have a vote because they do not sit on the committee.

Those alders said that they're strongly against the fare increase and promise to debate it on Tuesday night.

Even if the Common Council votes to approve the hike, there is one more option.

The Transit and Parking Commission manages Metro's money and it could choose to cut services to prevent raising fares.

Council members who attended Monday's meeting said that stronger criteria needs to be established to base these decisions upon.

It currently costs $1.50 for a regular adult fare on Madison Metro.